Migrants from Iraq and the neighbouring region: EU action plan adopted by the Council on 26.01.1996

The Parliament adopted a resolution drafted by Ms. Anna TERRIN I CUSI (PES, Spain) strongly objecting to a Council action plan to deal with refugees from Iraq and the neighbouring region, since it was adopted without consulting Parliament. The resolution expresses disapproval of the fact that the action plan gives the impression that only Iraqi and Kurdish refugees are concerned, whereas people from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Egypt are also affected. There is support for the EU granting aid to those regions facing a sudden influx of immigrants from neighbouring war-torn regions. There is a specific call on the Turkish authorities to find a solution to the Kurdish question. In addition, while there is support for the tough action to combat illegal immigrants, the Parliament takes the view that immigrants without proper documentation should not be automatically expelled. The Commission is requested to come up with a proposal for the directive for the procedures as soon as the Amsterdam Treaty comes into force. The EP is also concerned about the violation of human rights and the oppression faced by minorities and would like to see a detailed study carried out on the situation.�